“We can take this step today because the science shows our focus on getting people vaccinated is working,” said Cooper. “But to keep moving forward – and to make sure that we keep saving lives – more people need to get vaccinated.”
"With increasing vaccinations and ongoing work to slow the spread, I anticipate we'll be able to lift all mandatory social distancing, capacity & mass gathering restrictions by June 1. I plan to issue an Executive Order next week outlining safety restrictions for the month of May," Cooper said.
According to the Governor's executive order, retail businesses and shops, museums, and aquariums as well as barbers, salons, and personal care businesses are allowed to operate at 100%. The limits for mass gatherings will double to 50 people indoors and 100 outdoors.
“While I will ask legislators to revisit some areas of this legislation, including changes necessary to quickly deliver rental assistance, these funds will bring needed relief for people who are struggling, schools and small businesses as we strive to emerge from this pandemic,” Cooper said.
The rest of the Group 4, which includes a portion of essential workers, will become eligible April 7. “This move to Group 4 is good news,” said Cooper. “I know there are many efforts across the state getting vaccines to people as quickly and fairly as possible and I want our providers to know that their work is making all the difference.”
A bipartisan push for independent investigations into Governor New York Andrew Cuomo conduct is gaining more support throughout the county. Despite growing concerns over sexual harassment allegations and a nursing home scandal, one democratic leader remains silent about his colleague's actions.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools made the decision to forgo the dances altogether due to the associated risks with indoor gatherings. But sporting events all across the state will go on as planned with an increase of people in attendance.
Following public disagreements with Republicans on how schools should reopen, Cooper said, "Coming together after acrimony isn't easy, but it's the right thing to do for North Carolina. The good news is I think we all want the same thing. To open our schools for in-person instruction for all students and to do it safely with important emergency protections."
"It is time for us as adults to stop playing politics with the lives of our children," said Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson. "We can clearly see that they are hurting. It is time for us to stop this. It is time for us to stop worrying about our political future."
The virus doesn't know the difference between two hours at night, nor does it understand a curfew that wasn't really enforceable. This is all part of the game being played by Cooper and others that continues to hurt North Carolina businesses.
